Okay, you’re about to read the longest blog post ever written since the earth’s crust cooled. It was originally going to be an e-book. But a couple of things conspired to cause me to post it today...
First was the discussion on yesterday’s post where I asked you how hard you may be working to keep yourself broke. We were deluged with comments and a lot of you expressed real anxiety about how you can break the cycle of lack.
Then I got a call from a podcaster who was working on his show for today and the topic was about getting out of your own way. He wanted something he could refer his viewers to that would help them along the journey. So I’m posting this entire e-book in the blog, so both groups can get some insight right away. Then on tomorrow’s post I have some more specifics of how I think people actually work to stay poor.
So, put yourself in this picture…
The room air is filled with the smooth sensual sound of Anita Baker. You’ve got the candles burning, along with your favorite incense. You step into the glorious steamy water and sink down into your new hot-tub. You settle for a moment allowing your body to get accustomed to the heat and then, twisting slightly, you reach over and turn on the jets. Bubbles surge around you as the thrust and hum of the jets come to life.
The jetting water massages all your aching joints, teasing the tension of the day into a distant memory. You sigh. A deep prolonged release of pleasure as every nerve relaxes into sweet oblivion. You smile to yourself and close your eyes letting the steam and heat envelop you. The phone is turned off and the evening is yours; you won't be disturbed by anyone. The perfect end to a brilliantly rewarding day.
Isn't it deliciously wonderful to be selfish?
How does that make you feel when I ask you that? How do you feel when someone else calls you selfish? What would you think if I told you that selfishness is good?
Or that selfishness is your moral prerogative?
Isn't that why the phone's turned off? So no one can bother you? No phone call from your mother complaining about her nosey neighbor, your friend Nick trying to get you to help him move, or Julia wanting a ride out to the airport.
Let me ask you something…
If it feels so good to be selfish, why does the very word make us flush with guilt? Ayn Rand wrote a book of essays titled, The Virtue of Selfishness. When asked why she chose to use a word that threatened so many people, she replied, “For the reason that makes you afraid of it.”
I, like Rand did, use the word “selfish” to describe virtuous qualities of character. Let’s explore the idea…
The dictionary definition of selfishness is basically “concern with one's own interests, without regard for others.” It means, you value yourself first, regardless of what anyone else thinks. Notice that there is no good or evil implicit in the definition. That, 'without regard for others' does not mean that you are doing harm to others. It simply means that you are well adjusted and sensible enough to meet your own needs first.
Now of course that’s not what most of society would have you believe...
They tell you that your moral imperative is to put the interests of the many before the interests of the one. That you should sacrifice yourself for the “greater good.” This idea is very dangerous to your self-esteem and your life. Relinquishing your happiness for the sake of others, known or unknown, verifies to yourself, and others, that you are small and unworthy of even your own attention. It’s actually anti-humanity, and it makes you mentally ill.
Your survival and your pursuit of happiness must form the foundation of your value system. To make your life, by your own means, towards your own standards, and for your own enjoyment. Anything less than that is harmful to you. And anything harmful to the individual is actually detrimental to society as a whole. But don’t think society is smart enough to figure that out. They’re not.
The herd will maintain that the needs of the individual be relinquished to the needs of the masses. They tell you that it is your responsibility to take care of the less fortunate. Sounds innocent enough, doesn’t it? Well let’s take a look...
One Saturday you're out watering your lawn when a car drives up and you recognize your old friend Eddie at the wheel. You learn that he has just lost his job, his wife has kicked him out and he couldn't think of anywhere else to go. Eddie has always been in the middle of some drama or another, which is the main reason you haven't spoken too much lately. But you feel sorry for him and invite him to crash for the night. The next day, Eddie asks if you wouldn't mind if he stays just a couple more nights until he can find an apartment, and he assures you that he has a job all lined up. You feel a little awkward, but agree anyway. During the week, the job falls through and although you feel badly about it, you haven't failed to notice that he isn't making much of an effort to go out and find another.
A week turns into two, and soon you don't feel like coming home from your office. You feel like your home is no longer your own. You resent the position you find yourself in, yet feel guilty about being so selfish. After all, the guy has nowhere to go. Then you walk into your house and, once again, find Eddie sitting in your lounger, drinking beer and watching your TV....
Freeze frame.
I could go on, but you get the picture. What’s the surface situation here? The herd mentality says that poor Eddie has caught a bad break, and since he’s your friend, you owe it to him to help him out. You've been lucky, Eddie has fallen on misfortune. There you sit in a beautiful big home, with a lovely landscaped yard, and he has nothing. Not only does he not have a job, but now his car is broke and he doesn’t have money to fix it. He couldn’t get a new car because the bank wouldn’t approve his credit. They only lend money to people that don’t need it. He’s having a hard time getting a job because he needs to be paid cash, because creditors are hounding him and would garnish his wages and his “bitch” ex-wife is also harassing him for money.
Truth is, you have a little money saved. You have a car and house. You work, and you’ll get another paycheck this Friday. Eddie has not a penny. He “needs” it. You don’t. And you probably feel guilty, because you have so much, and Eddie has so little. This is exactly what moochers like Eddie count on to take advantage of you. But let’s look a little deeper...
Five years ago, you and Eddie worked at the same place. He was out the door every day at five sharp. “We’re on salary,” he said, “You don’t get paid extra to stay late.” But you stayed late many times anyway, because you had projects to finish, and you wanted a clean desk in the morning. Eddie got a head start on “Happy Hour” at the bar. When there were extra projects to do, you volunteered for them. Eddie told you that you were stupid for doing so. When time for raises and promotions came, you got them. Eddie quit after a year because they were “cheap, and they play favorites.”
Each month, you set aside a little money for savings and your house fund. Eddie couldn’t do this because he wasn’t “making enough money.” His priorities were nightlife at the clubs, cigarettes, getting a bigger TV and the other “necessities” of life. You went without cable to put the extra $30 a month into your retirement plan. Instead of first run movies, you usually caught them for $3 when the DVDs came out. You didn’t buy many luxuries because you thought the money was better put in your savings account. You lived on less than what you made, and invested the balance in your future. The herd would tell you that “Poor Eddie can’t catch a break.” In reality, most of the strikes against him are the result of hundreds of little choices he made every day.
He spends six bucks a day on cigarettes because, “The damn tobacco companies got me addicted.” He buys a 12 pack of beer twice a week because he, “needs to relax.” The reason his ex-wife is after him is because he hasn’t paid child support payments in two years. The reason the bank wouldn’t finance a new car was because he has a legal judgment against him for the credit cards he took out and never paid. He has always spent more than he earned, and now when he is facing a setback, he has no resources to fall back on. So he develops a “victim” mentality. This victim-hood role he is in causes others to feel guilty, and thus they are constantly bailing him out from one thing or another. He learns how to manipulate his tragedies for maximum effect.
Of course all the time he is “owning” this victim-hood, he is programming his subconscious mind to attract more drama, more tragedy and more challenges. He has learned that he can ignore the laws of prosperity and live for the moment, because there is always someone to save him from paying the price. So he goes on an endless victim cycle, always in one situation or another. He’s forever getting laid off, left out and wronged.
So what’s the good thing to do? What’s the “Christian” thing to do? The “right” thing? Should you help him?
Well I think the answer is “maybe.” But before we address that, let’s look at what is going to happen anyway...
Today's social system is ready to catch Eddie in its safety net. The government will feed, clothe and house Eddie. They have dozens and dozens of social programs for countless contingencies, and they can fund all of them because they force you to contribute from your paycheck each week. If you refuse, they will put you in prison. What if, instead of paying your taxes to the government on payday, things went like this: You receive your paycheck and, depending on where you live in the world, you immediately cut a check for 35, 58 or 62% of your wages, which would normally represent your income taxes, and you hop into your average sedan and head on over to Eddie's. Eddie is on his porch sipping from a can of beer and eyes you malevolently as you pull up. Hopping enthusiastically out of your car, you approach him, check in hand.
"Hey Eddie!" you say, "Just thought I'd pop by with your check seeing as how I was on my way home. There you go, another month of food, clothing, medical care, dental, entertainment. And because of the raise I received last week, there's a little more in there for your pension. Well, I can see you're busy, is there, uh, anything else I can do for you? No? Well, I'll be off then, have a ton of paperwork to clear up tonight! Have a wonderful evening, Eddie! Take it easy, see you next month!"
Would you ever agree to such a thing? In reality, you already have, because that’s the end result of the government and taxation system today. It is currently set up in a manner that the productive are penalized and the unproductive, rewarded. Where receiving something unearned is a sought after commodity.
The result of this dysfunctional system is that it disintegrates your self-esteem. Constantly sacrificing yourself, your values, for others in order to either gain a sense of moral superiority, or in order to escape some sense of anxiety or guilt, continually weakens your resolve. Without resolve, your confidence is at stake. You question your own worth and feel guilty when you do things to take care of yourself.
A strong resolve and a complete refusal to live by any other standard than that which holds with your values is the key to healthy, abundant self-esteem. It is only by being strong yourself that you can help others. Those whom you love and value, whom you admire because their values are akin to your own.
Help people out of strength, if you choose to do so, not out of weakness or guilt.
I am convinced that a lack of selfishness is self-destructive. Adopting self-sacrifice as a virtue enables others to take complete advantage of you and, practiced long enough, selfless behavior destroys.
I just got off the phone with a friend of mine who is a general manager at a restaurant. He had just fired a waiter who was his friend, who had worked there for nine years. The waiter was supposed to be at work at six on Sunday morning. He called at 5:50 to say he was sick. He was supposed to report Monday at seven. He never showed up, or even called. He showed up at a staff meeting on Tuesday and was disrespectful and disruptive. It became apparent that he had gone back to using drugs again. So my friend fired him.
Sound cold and uncaring?
Nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, my friend was sick over having to fire this guy. But it is this kind of “tough love” that has the best chance of getting this individual to turn his life around.
Take a businessman who keeps a terrible employee because he feels sorry for her. He hasn't the heart to fire her because her life is a wreck, her mother is an alcoholic, her father ran out, her husband's in jail – whatever - and so he enables her self-destructive behavior and lifestyle by keeping her on. In keeping this employee, against his better judgment but for the moral good – his other employees must take up her slack.
They begin to feel resentful and angry. Performance suffers across the board. Even hardworking, dedicated employees start to slack, because they see that they are not treated and rewarded in respect to the effort they contribute. Your customers receive poor service and soon your business is in real trouble.
But lets say, the businessman had done things differently, selfishly, for the betterment of himself and his company. He calls the errant worker into his office and after explaining why, fires her. Perhaps this turns out to be the wake-up call she needed and, giving her head a shake, sets out to improve her attitude and get a better job. One that she can be selfishly happy in. And if not, at the least he has a company that isn't in jeopardy and a happy crew to work with.
Equally destructive is the wife who covers for the abuses of her husband. Who, year after year, puts up with a steady torrent of emotional and physical terror, who looks 50 on her 30th birthday and who is so frail a strong wind would knock her down. Who, at the funeral of her husband feels both relief and fear. A love story gone horribly wrong.
Imagine though, if she had been strong in her resolve, and enough confidence in her own values that she had walked away after the first abuse. She would have selfishly saved herself a life of despair rather than live as a sacrificial animal at the hand of a bully.
In a free society, where the needs of the individual come first, people are liberated from guilt and anxiety. Self-sacrifice is more than the root of low self-esteem, it is anti-free enterprise and consequently anti-humanity. When the living energy of productive citizens is sucked from them by the parasitic herd, there is no incentive to remain productive. Every person of integrity should earn their own living in the free trade of value for value with others. This means no free rides. No pride in receiving the unearned. Let me share a hypothetical story inspired by something my friend Stuart Goldsmith wrote in his newsletter a few years ago.
Imagine that we are flying to Bali for a Mastermind Retreat and the plane goes down. We are stranded on a deserted island together with 20 other families. Being so isolated and completely exposed to the elements, we all quickly go about the construction of shelters and huts from the abundance of bamboo around the island. We search out a fresh water source, which we find located halfway up the backside of a mountain, a 2-hour hike away from camp. Fortunately there are crab and fish, clams and mussels in the surrounding sea as well as palm and fruit trees, so with a little ingenuity and skill, food abounds. All in all, between hunting and gathering, reinforcing our huts, building fires and cooking food…after looking after the survival needs of our families every day, we all fall into our makeshift palm-frond beds at night exhausted.
Being a small group, we soon find that by working with others, by exchanging value, we can get the work done a bit more efficiently. So we all start making deals. I'll go get the water and firewood for my family and yours today, if you will spend the day fixing up the roof of my hut. And, tomorrow, while I spend the day digging for clams and collecting coconuts for our two families, you spend the day getting the firewood and the water. We're trading value for value to make our lives easier. Progress is to our greatest advantage because it is always done in the spirit of making things easier. For freeing up time away from the toil and drudgery in order to get more out of life. More time, more freedom, more enjoyment.
One day, while lying on your back feeling completely battered after sliding 100 feet back down the incline leading to your water source, you come up with a brilliant idea. What if you rig up a pipe system with bamboo shafts thereby bringing the water to the camp and saving yourself the agony of hauling water?
Fantastic! But how on earth are you going to have the time for such a huge project while you have to worry about the long, daily grind of feeding and sheltering your family? You work extra. While everyone else is resting at night, you labor an extra two hours each day, building your pipeline. After weeks of strenuous effort, you’re done.
That evening around the campfire you stand up and make the following proposal:
“Every day you spend your morning trudging up the mountain to bring back water. I have designed and built a pipeline that brings the water direct to the village. I am willing to trade it for fish, coconuts, clothing and other products of your labor. In a fair exchange of values, we can trade. You win, because you don’t have to climb the mountain for four hours every day. I win, because I don’t have to spend so much time fishing, hunting and farming. All you have to do on every hot tropical day, is walk out of your hut to the middle of our community and pour yourself a frosty cold mountain bubbly.”
In exchange for the use of your pipeline, each family agrees to trade one hour of labor, hunting or gathering for your family. That means that your innovative piping system will save them three, of their previous four hours of collecting water each day.
Your motivation was selfish, yet you benefited everyone in the community. You were creative, and put out the effort. It wasn't easy for you to haul bamboo all over the mountain, to fit it or bind it, but YOU did it. And you deserve to feel pride. You have just created nineteen hours of labor saving for yourself. You used to work 12 hours a day. Now you have the benefit of 19. Which means you have a surplus of seven hours worth of supplies.
You open up a 7-8 store, which is open each evening from seven to eight. You barter the excess goods you have for other things. You continue to trade and collect more things. Pretty soon, you’re putting on a new addition to your hut. You add a billiard room and build a deck out back. Next thing you know, you’ve added a three-bike garage and built a pool in the back yard. You are reaping the reward of your labor and innovation.
Now notice that no one was forced into this agreement. If they don’t want to trade an hour labor with you, they can continue to climb the mountain and fetch their own water each day. Of course no one does, because that would be stupid, causing them an extra three hours work.
Now your neighbor Fred is inspired by your invention. He decides to use the three hours that he used to spend in collecting water building a sturdy boat from a hollowed out tree. He can now go out to the deeper water where the big fish are. He fashions a net from weaving palm fronds and snares many large fish at a time, instead of waiting for the few to come in around the rocks and trying to spear them. He opens Fred’s Fish House, with an all-you-can-eat fish fry every Friday night.
The fish is delicious, and the fish fry turns into “the place to be” every week. It gets so busy that your neighbor hires the lady from hut 6 to help him serve everybody. He hires the guy from hut 11 to mix pineapple and mango coolers. This part time work earns them some extra coconuts, which they can trade with others to get goods and services they need.
Meanwhile Fred is doing great. He opens a second location, on the other side of the islands. Since he’s the founder of the island’s first successful restaurant chain, he becomes a motivational speaker. His inspirational, you-can-do-this-too “rags to rattan” story inspires millions of people (ok, pairs of people) all over the world (ok, the island). He can now lounge around making gimp bracelets all day. You and Fred design a golf course to occupy your afternoons. He takes up playing conga drums made of coconuts, and you squeeze out some different colored berries and start to paint landscapes. It is the beginnings of the arts on your little island. Possibilities in paradise surround you. Of course, the other families, who have yet to make timesaving innovations of their own, see things a little differently...
In fact, they seem to have forgotten that the two of you have saved them hours of time and work with your inventions. They see you lounging in your hammock, while they’re out grubbing for berries. They start to get jealous and resentful, because it’s “not fair.” They call a town meeting, and decide to elect a government. Someone runs on a “Yes we can” platform and they’re elected in a landslide, 98 to 2. They immediately introduce a socialist system “for the good of the many.” They need to pay themselves, hire inspectors for the water pipeline, and people to license the fishing boat, sweep the dirt floor at the new city hall, etc., so they start an income tax system. Village members start to grumble. This doesn’t look so good. They don’t like the idea of paying taxes. Then the new mayor announces that everyone has a “right” to water and big fish, so he’s going to nationalize the pipeline and fishing industry. The government takes away your pipeline and Fred’s boat is stolen from him as well. Now the villagers are nodding along. They realize that they no longer have to trade an hour of labor a day to you and Fred. The government is going to provide for them. They don’t mind paying their taxes, because they realize that this allows them to tax their way into the wallets of the rich people. We are going to have socialism or communism, and everybody will be taken care of by the benevolent government.
This is now the beginning of the end...
In this scenario, the uninspired islanders would, out of resentment, 'seize the means of production' in the name of the public. If you resisted, you would be imprisoned or executed as an 'enemy of the state.' The herd would be happy, because now they have free access to the water and fishing boat. (Of course it’s not free, but they get more back for their taxes than they pay in, so they could care less.)
But what would happen next?
Kathy, who had an idea how to harness wind and solar power for electricity would figure, “why bother?” Fernando, who had an idea for a coconut husker would think the same thing. They would rightly conclude that the extra labor and resources they devote to innovation would never be rewarded, because the government would steal the excess they created, and distribute it to the moochers. Progress and innovation would stop. Cures to diseases would never be found, inventions would not be created and life would continue to be a primitive struggle for survival. In fact, they would only continue to look for free handouts and eventually the little collective would shrivel up and die.
Communism does not work. Everywhere it has been tried, it has enslaved people and failed miserably. Socialism (which is simply Communism with lipstick) has failed just as desperately. What we call free enterprise in the western world is actually just a watered down version of socialism. A system not unlike our fictional island government.
Now why am I telling you all this?
It’s not to discuss the politics, as fascinating as that may be. It’s to help you realize the lack and limitation mind viruses you have been assaulted with since you were young. And help you understand that the very system you live in is brainwashing you to feel guilty for succeeding, and rewards you for doing less than you are capable of. It creates codependent dysfunctional people. If you accept this thinking, your chances for manifesting a prosperous life are almost non-existent.
As creative, thinking human beings we are up against a mass of people who want something for nothing and governments around the world who want to give it to them. The sad truth is that your government doesn't want you to be successful. Your government wants and needs you to be a worker drone in the collective to support their system in of seizing money from the productive minority to distribute it to the majority to win votes and remain in power.
Your government does not want you to be personally, individually successful for several reasons. Here's two. If you are super-productive and your idea hits mainstream and goes huge, you may earn billions of dollars like the Bill Gates of the world. This makes you an alarming threat. With that kind of money you could topple a government. If you're freethinking you might choose to opt out of the system and go your own way. How, then, would the government make a profit from your life's effort? Without the means to tax its citizens how would the government stay in power? After all, it is their distorted Robin Hood platform that has got them elected by the mooching masses.
The plain truth is that a productive, innovative, intelligent human being in today's world has to be strong in their resolve in order to rise above the looters and parasites, to live a rewarding and prosperous life. On your journey to self-fulfillment, you will find that it is not just your government that doesn't want you to be successful, it is often also your community, friends, and even family. They are programmed that money is bad, rich people are evil, and it is spiritual to be poor. And you get infected with these same beliefs on a subconscious level. You develop entitlement mentality and self-sabotage your own success. You create more “hero’s journey” challenges for yourself as we discussed a couple of posts ago. THAT is what causes you to work to stay poor.
I certainly experienced this growing up. I remember being so envious of other kids who went on vacations, had mini-bikes, go carts and other toys my family couldn’t afford. When I got to be driving age, I looked at the kids who could afford to get cars right away and got more jealous. I saw people living in nicer houses and wondered why it was that they had all that stuff instead of me. Once you adopt this herd thinking, you become a victim. Just like our friend Eddie that we began this lesson with.
What happened in my case was – unbeknownst to me, on a subconscious level – I began to hate rich people and think they were bad. Thing was, I very much wanted to be rich myself. (Or at least, that’s what I believed.) In fact, I wanted to be a millionaire by the time I was 35. I spent just about every waking moment thinking about wealth. I wanted more out of life, I didn't like my life, being broke, thinking lack. The problem was, I still had the underlying belief that rich people were bad. So even though I said I wanted to be wealthy, I was doing things on a daily basis that were taking me further away from wealth. From my work, to the people I hung out with, from dysfunctional relationships, to a complete lack of self-development – I was thinking like the people around me. And we all thought like victims.
And this is how the majority of people walk around everyday. They are completely in conflict with themselves. Victims of their own subconscious programming.
Fortunately, I hit bottom, and when I had absolutely nothing, I was able to let all the negative thinking, all my past beliefs go as well. With my blank slate, I started to fill my life with knowledge, ideas, and pursuits that would bring me into harmony with the prosperity I sought. I didn't do it by keeping the same people around me and staying in the same thought-form.
When you start adopting beliefs of abundance and prosperity, you stop putting things into your body that make you sick, you stop taking actions that get you into trouble, and you stop hanging out with dysfunctional people who bring you down. None of it appeals to you anymore. Instead, you start eating healthy and feel great. With that energy and vitality, you take actions that bring you prosperity. When you honor your values, you meet people who celebrate the same things in life that you do.
In our present mass-driven world, there are billions of people who think from lack. I'd say most organized religions preach lack, the education systems teach lack, and that we are part of a human race that believes that rewards come to those who are good but poor. Whether you believe it or not, the masses have chosen poverty regardless of the fact that they wished they had money. The media, television networks and advertisers work to reflect those beliefs that appeal to the masses' need of acceptance. Our culture celebrates mediocrity because it makes you safe and acceptable to the herd.
You have to be brave to make a break from this type of thinking (or more correctly, non-thinking). A lot of people find this a huge stumbling block. There is a lot of fear tied up in leaving the pack. If we're successful, won't our friends and family think we're bad people? They think other rich people are bad – why not us? If I tell my friends my hopes and dreams, will they ridicule me? Will they stop loving me?
Fear of success is a direct result of low self-esteem and a lack of selfishness. And as ironic as it may seem, actually being selfish will make the world a better place for all. But for many of you, doing this will require a serious questioning of your core beliefs. When you question your beliefs - you question your limitations. If your beliefs serve you - they can withstand the scrutiny. If they don't survive the questioning - you can drop them, and replace them with beliefs that serve you. By doing this kind of critical thinking, you prevent yourself from falling into victim mentality, and developing fear, self doubt and lack. You recognize selfishness as a virtue and not an evil as the masses believe it to be. You realize that the government playing Robin Hood actually hurts everyone. Now this begs the question that may be troubling you...
Namely, what about the less fortunate?
Should we just forget about them? Absolutely not. We must treat them with love, dignity, and compassion. But we can do it ourselves, not at the point of a gun from the government. The number one expense on my tax return each year is for charity. And it will be every year. I support causes for runaway kids, children with terminal diseases, animal protection organizations, my church, human rights, the Opera, the film festival and a host of other causes. And you know what?
I can do that because I’ve been successful. When I was broke, I wasn’t helping anyone. I enjoy supporting those causes, and I do it because I’m selfish. I give to them because of the joy it gives me to do so.
These are some pretty big topics and we've only just brushed the surface here...
We’ll explore this more in some future posts. Recommended Resource: If you'd like to explore deeper, here is a playlist of almost 35 videos that I live-streamed for my "Prosperity Un-Church." Watch one a week (or one a day) until you've completed them all, and your mindset and prosperity consciousness will be transformed. Also, please check in below with your thoughts. Mastermind with the other people in the community about how you throw off the bonds of lack and accept the abundance you are meant to experience.
Peace,
- RG
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'During the week, his job falls through and although you feel badly about it, you haven’t failed to notice that he isn’t making much of an effort to go out and find another...'
Oh how true this is. The Man on the Couch forever glued to the sci-fi channel, do we (I) have this in my life to make me feel better about myself- in my life I have couch surfed a few times so I do not mind lending that space- but I bust my ass no matter what to get off the couch.
I have decided not to wait for people to recognize my value - that's just another form of lack thinking - where my self-worth is dependent on approval and reward from others.
I have talent and ability beyond most people I know, but somehow have been waiting to be called up on stage, as if what I know I can do is somehow invalid without the endorsement of others.
Today, I have decided to own what's mine and to do with it what I choose!
Thanks!
kh
the feeling is a guilt!..u have much and others had nothing, Another kind of lack programming.,
Randy you words are so captivating! I love the description of sitting in a Jacuzzi and relaxing after a hard day's work.
I can relate to this quote below:
"On your journey to self-fulfillment, you will find that it is not just your government that doesn’t want you to be successful; it is also your community, your friends and your family."
With the consent words of discouragement from my mother, to whom I speak with the most, it has been difficult to shake off the words of negativity that pour from her lips on a daily basis. But I have found that when I indulge in reading literature (ei. Think and Grow Rich), connecting with other like-minded individuals online, or write down and reflect upon my dreams it is easier to allow the ideas of others roll off my shoulders when what they say is in conflict to my beliefs.
Randy, I have often dwelt upon the desire to be wealthy from a very young age. Therefore, it is not my desire any longer that drives me but my destiny which I must fulfill that does. Wealth, if used in the right way, gives you options to spend, give, and invest as you choose. Options open up the freedom gates. I choose to be FREE!
Randy,when I share the above 'prosperity-philosophy' with others, I more than once get this question:
"Well, if prosperity is in the ethers, waiting for you to manifest it, what about the under-fed, HIV-infected single mother of 6, who lives in the desert of Zimbabwe?"
How would you reply to such a question Randy? Sometimes it does feel people have a point when they come up with an extreme example. On the other end, I feel they don't...
It's hard for me to come up with an explanation... Any ideas? What would/could the above mentioned mother do?
i like this, "A strong resolve and a complete refusal to live by any other standard than that which holds with your values is the key to healthy, abundant self-esteem. It is only by being strong yourself that you can help others. Those whom you love and value, whom you admire because their values are akin to your own." -RG
thanks
gene
As someone born in ZImbabwe - I'm now 35. If I lived there... I wold be dead probably - life expectancy is 34 for woman....
So I'm really interested in how you respond, Randy...
I come from Zimbabwe. Many years ago when I ran a business there, Mugabe was turning into a dictator. I counseled my employees that he could not win if everyone of 12 million people said "No". He could intimidate and terrorize a few people but not everyone all at once. Unfortunately a victim mentality is part of the belief system of many people in Africa. Another part of the belief system is that other people should give them what they need.
Some countries in the north of Africa are beginning to take responsibility for their lives. Until enough people do that in Zimbabwe, tragedies will continue.
What Randy is saying could be the salvation of Zimbabwe but until people understand and practice it there will be plenty of sad tales.
I must admit, I have only recently been introduced to you and started reading your blog and fan page on facebook.
This post is something that I agree with 100% and have been telling people all the type, be selfish, think of you before thinking of others. In the end if you don't love and respect yourself, how can others love and or respect you?
With regards to the question above, about the mother in Zimbabwe, what happened to her has happened and you can't go back and change things around. But looking towards the future, there is things that she can do.
In the end if she stays in the exact same place doing the exact same things then it doesn't matter if prosperity is in the ethers or not, she will not manifest a better life.
On the other hand if she believes that she can have a better life and start acting on it then she will be able to achieve it.
Thanks for the excellent post Randy.
Regards
Paulo
Woah waaay too long there buddy. I read majority then fell asleep, scanned; I get the point. In fact I felt a bit insulted this shizzle is COMMON SENSE! -
Absolutely fantastic, Randy, is all I can say at this time!!! I am now going to order your book you suggested!!! Thank you so much!!!
I turn 50 on November 10th and have been through a deep process all year to get to this point. Only last week I decided that I am going be more selfish, to make more time for me and to indulge myself in treats and look after my entire self gloriously. I'm not rich, and I work in the caring professions (I'm a therapist). For most of my life I have given a lot to others, and I will continue to do so as and when I am required to (and paid to). But I am re-setting my limits and boundaries. On November 10th I am turning the spotlight on me and I am going to revel in it.
Thanks for the generous post Randy, it was good to re-read this.
Here's to being Sensationally Selfish!
Great post , look in to ourselves we can find the answer or the problem You, can change you life in a minute
Randy- Your writing is smooth and descriptive and makes tough realizations come to life and make sense-
Recent poll stated that the 85% of college grads plan on moving back home- because home is so sweet! I speak on the generations and hit a big-time nerve with the boomer parents in the audiences who continue to pamper their adult children as they constantly catch their 25-30 year old kids with a safety net called "love"-
Single moms who barely scrape by continue paying their adult kid's "car insurance. Loving parents admit doing their kids homework and bragging about the A they got- them rationalization that the competition getting into a great college is so tough- their kid need a little help-
What are we teaching our children? It's time to get selfish!
Ayn Rands "Atlas Shrugged & The Virtue of selfishness" poured gass on my firre and build me up more than any book i had ever read. I took Eric advice about reading Ayn Rand at the conference in Mainheim that you both did and i'm glad i did. I know that your teachings are very congruent with Rand's and i understand why. I appreciate you for spreading the power of prosperity consciousness in the world in a healthy way.
See ya on the world's stages!
Alex Tita
Amen and Thank you! Twas a wake up call to this Mom. I live this way except when it came to my daughter... no more. I'm showing her the wrong way.
Randy,
Thanks so much! As I have stated in previous comments, I had lost a couple of successful business during the past few years. I have dropped into this type of victim mindset. Even my wife and my life coach have said many times, "well you are not alone, it is just the economy and the times we live in." They encouraged me to go out and find a whatever work I can find and just settle for a simple life because I had lost big in the business world. Well that just does not excite me or get me to a "white hot burning desire". So thanks to you Randy, I am changing every aspect of my life today - 11-04-09 - and going back to believing that I can build another business and once again be successful even in a down economy. Thanks for your insight!!!!!
There is a lot in this blog. I can see that been selfish and putting myself first is a good thing and the way to break from my poor mentality.
You off tangent when you are start expanding your personal ideas of prosperity to govertments. In the name of Free Enterprirse and Personal Responsability, the bankers bankrupted their banks in the U.S and they gave themselves millions in compensations. I call that legalized corruption.
Let's take your Libertarian ideology to Mexico, where the third richest person in the world lives,Carlos Slim, while half of the population lives in utterly poverty. On the other hand, one of your mentors in Norway makes over $100,000 a month and Norway has one of the highest taxation rate in the world.
In the 21th century, there is no relation between creating wealth and high taxation. In fact, Finland which has the highest marginal tax rates in the world has created 2 billionaries with a population of 5 millions.
The idea that anyone who doesn't make money is a failure is just non-sense. You take us all around the world:Do the Opera singers in Italy are millionaries?Are you softball buddies millionaries? Making moneys means you know how to make money. That's it.
There is no relation between making money and been succesful. We all know people who have millions and are miserable and people who don't have money and are miserable too.
I want to learn to make money in Network Marketing but I will never put my self-worth on doing it.
I'm a big Rand fan, and absolutely LOVE "Atlas Shrugged". A lot of the conservative-side folks have taken it and twisted up some of the meaning in my opinion to mean that "the bottom line" is the almighty.
They are wrong about that.
She wrote about CONTRIBUTION and progress being the aim, and the freedom to do it.
The "Every man for himself" philosophy DOES NOT WORK EITHER.
You wrote about Communism proving itself to not work, and we JUST proved the same with Capitalism, unless you choose to stay blind. "Every man for himself" DOES NOT WORK.
As for selfishness, I agree with all of that about doing what's in your own interest. Being that I have now read that story in Randy's different books (It's in at least two), I thought I'd mention that the government gets established and takes away the pipeline not just to feed the people, BUT TO STOP THE PEOPLE FROM KILLING THE INVENTORS.
I would say that is in their interest!
In a REAL world situation, you are better off helping Eddie rather than Eddie becoming the Criminal of the town. THAT'S why the govt does what it does. When you have the capacity to think BIGGER, you see these things.
In a real-world situation, there are people who will take by FORCE (instead of government), and THAT is the real threat.
So, what I am saying in that is that helping Eddie IS in your interest, although there comes a point where it isn't.
Helping the waiter was in his interest, until it wasn't.
So, helping each other IS in our interest, until it isn't.
I sooooo agree with this comment. One of my friends, a single mother of an only male child, is bank rolling her son's college education. This kid has not taken the initiative to independently get a job (without his mommy's permission) and earn money to pay for his expenses.
When I ask her about how she's going to pay for her retirement, she says (and I'm quoting verbatim), "He's a good kid..." I'm thinking that she thinks he's going to bank roll her retirement in exchange for her paying for his college.
Your words are soooooo TRUE!
Great post Randy.
Releasing underlying beliefs can be a change. You can't do this on a conscious level because you're not aware of these blockages. Deep meditation and autosuggestion leading into sleep are 2 great methods to release and reprogram.
What one person calls selfish, another calls a full life. I aim to live a full life. If someone labels me as selfish they wish that they could be living the life I live.
The irony of it all is that whomever uses the word selfish is thining 'Me, me, me.' As in, '*I* decide how *you* should live your life.' This line of thining is the height of selfishness and arrogance.
Those who are comfortable with wealth spend a lot more time thinking about others than judgemental people do.
I see how I have attach my self-worth to not having money.
Now. Can you give more examples on how YOU change those patterns in yourself? Randy, I listen to you because You have been where I am. I dont' like hype and theory.
You have shared 4 strategies to break these patterns:1)Becoming aware, 2)Asking questions to ourselves? 3)auto-suggestion CD 4)Theraphy.
thanks,Man.
This was a great post Randy. I've already began my journey in my mind of prosperity and selfish thinking. Somehow, I think I did raise my children to be selfish and put their interests first, so hopefully we've broken the cycle. I've already had a positive experience with receiving a booking for my MLM business and it's wonderful. I know I need to lose my toxic friends because they bring me down.
The jacuzzi story was great, but I think i went the wrong way with it. In my mind I started remodeling my bathroom to go ahead and get the bigger marble jacuzzi tub with my new wealth ... is this where my mind is supposed to go now 🙂
Good for you!
-RG
These 4 things are a good start. Be very careful about saying things like "I want to make money/be successful, but I'm not willing to sell my soul/be a bad parent/etc..." because it programs you that it is a either/or scenario. You can be wealthy, healthy happy AND be a good person.
-RG
Bones you have an erroneous premise here. You seem to think what we practice in this country is free enterprise and capitalism. It isn't. It is socialized capitalism. Big difference. This is not to say that free enterprise is perfect. Nothing is. It is just the best option.
-RG
Is it sense? Absolutely. Common? Not a chance.
-RG
Yes exactly. Prosperity is in the ethers all around us as Charles Fillmore taught. But the mechanism to manifest it is ideas. And it is very easy to see that places with the most challenges offer the greatest opportunities for ideas. Think of the last few posts and my Randy's Rants newsletter when I spoke of the "jockeys" in Jakarta. Challenges offer a chance to use our creativity and ingenuity and by solving them you can create wealth. Or as Dave Matthews says, "someone else's broken heart becomes your favorite song."
-RG
"I want to make money/be successful, but I’m not willing to sell my soul/be a bad parent/etc…” because it programs you that it is a either/or scenario. You can be wealthy, healthy happy AND be a good person." -RG
THANK YOU. Do you realize I read that entire post and said, 'uh-huh, ya...makes sense.'
BUT, the reply you gave above is the hidden 'ah-ha' nugget that was intended for me.
You just threw down a message from the universe to me.
I'm 'that' single mom of two, feeling the either/or scenario of "I'm not willing to be a bad parent".
I don't NEED to feel that or believe that scenario. I CAN have it all AND be a great parent.
I've just accepted a HUGE new truth. Now, don't get me wrong, my programming may try to force the either/or scenario back, but now that I KNOW it's there, I can DO something about it.
You rock.
Jhanna Dawson
You are correct- do you feel that absolutely pure capitalism (free enterprise) is possible?
It isn't.
Someone having a "sale" breaks the rules of it. As does marketing. As does word-of-mouth. All of those things BREAK THE RULES of pure capitalism. So does crime.
Just like Communism sounding good on paper, Capitalism does too, it just doesn't account for humans!
In your island story, the guy who makes the pipeline GETS KILLED for it by the most violent person on the island, and "every man for himself" or "Might makes right" wins.
We have collectively decided to NOT live that way.
The heart of the matter...
A strong resolve and a complete refusal to live by any other standard than that which holds with your values is the key to healthy, abundant self-esteem. It is only by being strong yourself that you can help others. Those whom you love and value, whom you admire because their values are akin to your own.
STOP attempting to be someone else. Be you first last always and all ways.
GREAT read!! Thank you Randy.
One of my fav songs is JoDee Messina's "Bye Bye." It's basically a chick song about kissing off a loser boyfriend. But I sing it out loud all the time to remind me to say bye-bye to any and all relationships (with people or things) that are holding me back...
What a great read. I see so many people I know in Eddie. Unwilling to step out of their comfort zone, willing to let everyone around them do the work. If individuals aren't willing to put forth the effort to change their circumstances, then they are not the people I want to spend time with. Life is so much more than just what happens to you, it is what you make of it!!
Actually I think sales, marketing and word of mouth are perfect demonstrations of capitalism.
-RG
Glad you got this. It's a huge breakthrough for a lot of people.
-RG
I love that song and your comment!
-RG
That is the heart of the matter!
-RG
Great post Randy. One thing that keeps me from taking success to the next level is the fact that I hate paying taxes. Sometimes I get the idea that I am sabotaging myself so that I do not earn enough to pay taxes. I cannot stand to see how our government steal and waste our tax money, but in the end that is what is keeping me from achieving the success I have been working for.
“Well, if prosperity is in the ethers, waiting for you to manifest it, what about the under-fed, HIV-infected single mother of 6, who lives in the desert of Zimbabwe?"
This is a good point Robert, and one that I struggled with as well. Until I read about a single mother of 4 (in South America) living in the "in the middle of nowhere" who had started a successful organic coffee farming business!
Picture this: She has 4 kids, and her husband leaves her becuase he looses his job a the local mine. He is the only source of income for the household. Her husband and all of his other "victim mentality" peers complain to the government about how badly they are treated and demand for "something to be done about this".
She cannot get a job, but decides go back to her farming roots as that is all she knows. Her organic coffee farm becomes so successful that she can lower her prices and offer better quality coffee at a better rate than the local competitors, winning more business. She now provides for her kids, and employing some of the laid off miners(!) to work so they can provide for THEIR families as well. So not only has she brought prosperity for herself, but her community as well.
It's pretty impressive stuff. This really makes me believe that if you are willing to release victim-hood, and manifest prosperity, your circumstances are almost irrelevant.
Might be worth mentioning this story next time! 🙂
People Just Love This Business!
"But for most of you, to do this will require a serious questioning of your core beliefs. When you question your beliefs – you question your limitations. If your beliefs serve you – they can withstand the scrutiny. If they don’t survive the questioning – you can drop them, and replace them with beliefs that serve you."
I believe that this sums it up. The question is how do we get "down deep" and clean out the old "stuff" to make way for the new. Most changes I have made in my life seem like a warm bath...it's nice for awhile - but then the water goes cold. In other words, I usually move back to what I am comfortable with. Of course, over time, I have made "progress" which seems to satisfy for a time. Maybe being really frustrated is the key to changing some of the core beliefs!
Thanks for the insight Randy (and others who have commented)
A lot to think about.
"Relinquishing your happiness for the sake of others, known or unknown, verifies to yourself, and others, that you are small and unworthy of even your own attention. It’s actually anti-humanity, and it makes you mentally sick!
Your survival and your pursuit of happiness must form the foundation of your value system. To make your life, by your own means, towards your own standards, and for your own enjoyment. Anything less than that is harmful to you. And anything harmful to the individual is actually detrimental to society as a whole. "RG
It is not easy when family & friends are part of "the herd" but I can't live the way the herd is telling me to live. So it is a lonelier road but doable. Love yourself unconditionally.
"You can't look good and get better at the same time." RG
"If Not This Then What? If Not NOW then When? If Not You Then Who?"Ken Dunn
I haven't read "Why You’re DUMB, SICK & Broke & How to Get SMART, HEALTHY & RICH! " ...so I'll move it up on my list of books to read.
another tip for self development: repetition... reread good books & re-listen to good self development.
Powerful & provocative...if someone just took note of which phrases triggered an emotional reaction while reading, they could engage in some powerful self-reflection and mind-opening questions...thanks for posting this!
That belief is definitely not serving you!
-RG
Great read ,changing ones belief system is hard yet it is worth it in order to evolve.
Hey Randy,
Excellent Story! I am going to order your book and dive right in!
I have done some heavy duty cleansing since I lost wrote and have decided to start fresh. I am caught in the middle, being unemployed, receiving unemployment, for which I have paid for my entire working life, and through the entire JOB less time I have never worked so hard and learned so much! I am required to search for new employment, which I do, but through my learning and growing, it has become quite hypocritical. I have developed so much that I feel as though I am just getting started and to go back to a JOB, would be like handing me a prison sentence, Yikes!
Clearly my financial resources are at an all time low, but I have never felt more optimistic that something somewhere is just around the corner, and if I continue to get up early and work on my projects, sooner or later it will click.
Everyone is pressuring me to just take a job, any job to get myself back in the rat race, and I must say it is really the last thing I want. I know it feels or appears that I am just spinning my wheels, but deep inside I truly desire to create a miracle out of what seems to be a disaster.
Abraham Lincoln also experienced many defeats before reaching the White House, and some how I see alot of similarities between the two of us! I would also like to free the slaves, the slaves of the rat race, but I must set the example and pave the way, that others too can finally experience this freedom I feel.
I have cast my sails and head out now to the open seas of oppurtunities and I know one day we will laugh over this phase I have been going through. Any suggestions from you as to which direction I should sail?
Thanks again Dear Randy for always sending your strong wind of determination and desire my way!
See you at the Southern Cross!
Sincerely,
Rocky
I think you mean that they are ingenuity, and a smart way to do business, and I whole-heartedly agree with you. However, they are NOT capitalism, because if you read the definitions and requirements for capitalism, they are OUTSIDE the rules.
Pure capitalism is "Best product, best price" period.
And that is supposed to win. Just like when Dagney was at the island, and they ran into the guy working on the machine that was even better- THAT was capitalism- not "His marketing is so flashy" or "I'm having a sale!". Those things GO AGAINST pure capitalism, and as you realize now- totally impossible.
I look at taxes as something I *get* to do rather than something I *have* to do.
So, I get to hire all those people to keep the streets clean and the lights working as I drive by in my dream car!
kh
What's a great post, Randy! I read it again and again. I got many interesting points I have never known before. You help me understand about selfishness more clearly. And now, I commit not to feel sick on that. You're so right: it's no worth to me to continue tying myself with any fears, and it’s my duty to make my own life healthy before I can help others. Why my soul has to be ill-treated by other criticism? Why doesn’t it be fed by new fresh and generous thought? It’s my choices. I decide to choose a life of soul opening and rewarding. Thanks Randy for your beautiful words!
Dear Mr Gage,
I am overwhelmed. I have explored these concepts myself,and yet have been trapped at the same time.I have much searching to do,and thanks to your blog have been given the excuse to do so. We are scared and we often take the easy way out. I am getting weary of this cycle,it is time to move on.
Thank You,
Deatra
In the book you'll find a chapter on the three best businesses I recommend for leverage, which is the best way to create true wealth. Good luck. Let me know what you think.
-RG
Randy:
I had a breakthrough this morning. There is no relationship between making money and been succesful.
You also told to make a "Dream Board" to break through our limiting beliefs.
Please keep telling us how YOU broke through your limiting beliefs.
Randy:
You are very qualified to write a book on prosperity. It will be great to see how you broke the process of limiting beliefs in your life through a 5 year process.
No hype, no jumping around like a monkey on stage, just inner transformation.
It seems to me that this is where most people are stuck on building a succesful network marketing business.
It is like building a house without foundations. Until the foundations are secured, You can add anything else or else it falls apart.
I'm going to be honest with everyone here. Because my life at present is like that of Eddie's. I'm sleeping on the floor of my childhood friends place living out of four white boxes. However, I'm not a dumb ass like Eddie because I work full-time pay my rent and child care like clockwork. I don't watch TV I meditate and visulize at around 4 in the morning read mental food for thought and raising my conscieness for my own selfish needs.
I made a public declarartion at my work place that I intend to retire in 5 years time. I told most of my collegues to remind me of my commitment to retire from driving a London Bus in five years. I sharing my network marketing opportunity with most of the drivers who know me. Even though I know they are all suspects rather than prospects! I have no shame in sharing my ideals with my colleague who shake their heads in agreement but still afraid to answer their cell phone when I call.
Being motivated for my own selfish needs is workable for me and if anyone joins my network marketing business I will share with them some tough love ideals that'll test their resolve.
RG Looking forward to your next post. Keep them flowing.
Randy I know you're a baseball fan, So I'm curious of your thoughts on this line of a rant.
I'm reading this blog the day after the Yankees won the World Series. While my favorite player of all time is Lou Gehrig, I've always despised the Yankees organization, Even calling them the Evil Empire. That was until I started talking to my wife about the team during one of the games this week against the Phillies.
If we dislike the Yankees because they are the most successful team in professional sports are we just acting in a lack mentality like those who dislike and mistrust rich people. 27 World Series championships is quite a feat and Should be celebrated and studied.
Why are the Yankees so Rich, Successful and consistent. It's mindset. The Chicago Cubs are called lovable losers and the Yankees The Evil Empire. Both are Big Time teams with polar opposite mindsets. The Yankees EXPECT to win, The Cubs EXPECT to Blow it. One is Prosperity Driven, the other Is Lack or Poverty driven. One has ONE name on the front of the jersey, a # on the back and is Team driven, the other One name on the Front and another name on the back and is Personality driven. One is driven by Goals and rich in content, the other is driven by fear and usually poor in content.
Point being , The Yankees have built a culture of success, follow the plan, keeps what works and gets rid of what doesn't. Expect their players and staff to be professional, Holds them accountable and inspires them to play or perform at their highest level at all times. What's to hate about that?
The same can be said of many other historically successful professional and collegiate teams.
For example: Notre Dame, USC, Texas, and Oklahoma of College Football.
UCLA, Indiana, Kentucky, Kansas, North Carolina and Duke in Men's College Basketball.
Tennessee and UConn in Women's College Basketball.
The Lakers and Celtics of the NBA.
The Patriots, Colts, Cowboys and Steelers of the NFL.
The Canadians and Red Wings of the NHL.
Real Madrid and Manchester United of European Football
Most People who are passionate about sports like me (can you tell?) probably have an opinion about one of the teams listed above. Chances are if they aren't fans of one of them and their team has suffered a beat down by them the HATE that team for it's success, falling into a lack mentality. Each of these teams should be celebrated for their success and studied by the other teams in their field for clues.
I've read this story in like 2 of your other books. Great read.
I also read "Atlas Shrugged" by Ayn Rand, because you recommended it. The entitlement mentality is something that has to be let go in people...
Everyday, I see the self limiting beliefs which are prevalent in our world, and funny thing is so many people argue and justify why they are where they are...but I try to help as many as I can, and it seems to be working...
Its amazing how much junk we have to remove from inside us....
I`ve read “Atlas Shrugged” by Ayn Rand. The great thing! Thanks m-r Gage for opening me this wise booke.
Randy, this is my first visit to your blog and I am floored by your wisdom and the ability to portray the lesson with a great visual.
We too talk much about pipeline income & it's effect, but to say you took it to the next level would be an understatement. It's truely sad how few people understand this. The comments about friends and family being "unsupportive" and the "belief" that rich people are evil are so true. As a newcomer to the world of the entreprenuer I have been assaulted on all sides by everyone who "knows" me. It's interesting to see who your true friends are & even more interesting to associate with people of your caliber. Orrin said you were amazing at the Mastermind Event - I think I'll not miss my old "friends"....keep it coming! (PS - love the title of your book! After I read it - I won't hesitate to pass it on to the "Eddies" in my former life...)
Spot on Randy! I have enjoyed this connection w/you via Art Jonak & Orrin Woodward & The Team. Ayn Rand is a must read author for sure. Looking forward to meeting you someday as I'm sure we will. In the meantime, take care & God Bless. 🙂
Randy!
I Love You... will you be my president??? Can I write in your name??
THere were cracks of lightning and thunder going off in my head as I read this. I will share this extensively.
Kathleen
I have just listened to you in the "I am Agel" in Brazil and start waking up from my "sleep-life". So when I got in my place today I start really working on myself and found your post. It was fantastic, thanks for that! We need people that makes us really think about our situation, so thank you! have a good selfish life 🙂
I will get mine now. Cheers
Добрий день..Ренди
читал ваши книги,они заставляют задуматся
Dear Randy,
Astounding your writing. I stumbled on your website. I thought you looked kind a mean but proceeded. I was the women who finally left the abuse in my strong resolve but crawling then. People felt sorry for me with my child with autism. My catholic faith exploited I was turned into the sacrificial animal to a bully. I had no clothers, furniture or food when I filed for divorce. I was white, in Orange County and college educated with professional jobs. What happened to me? No self care. the last 7 to 9 years has been my awakening and new climb up the other side of the mountain. Some call it selfishness I call it SELF CARE. And you are absolutely correct, my self care has provided for others. My son has recovered in mainstream school's my career has reached the six figures, I own my home, I stood up to the bully and did my own divorce and demand his child support as I pay for our son as well. I am traveling to Europe now, starting my investing and own consulting and writing business and it is all based on what pleases me and makes me happy. Now, I have balance with my faith and can attend church and decide where my 10% goes each month. Sometimes the Women's shelter wins over the church, but it is my money, my choice and it is all due to self care. Now, I question making it with wealth and want it even more. Every time I think of me first the whole world gets better. My son gets better, the bully stays away and the like minded friends and aides who help my son get more experience and training and my home is filled with things I love and then I want to give out of this joy instead of sacrifice. I am rich and getting wealthier everyday. Your writing was right on. I wish I had left at the first abuse, but stayed for 6 stupid more years due to religion, family, kids. Nothing to do with me and I was being killed. Never again do I wait, put myself second or think someone's bad luck is my call to save. If my example inspires them fine, but being a light in the world isn't about chasing after others to give. It is a wholeness and building prosperity. I am ready for the next level because I know my value. My looks are better at 43 then they ever were married and sacrificing and my bank account and investments grow and grow because I am growing and living. Jennifer
I.love this... Your words really got me inspired..
Wish to connect with You more if you dont mind
+2347068128956
our society has deteriated to the point where the rich are extremely rich and the poor are extremely poor. this causes many extreme problems i.e. people dieing of starvation and babys murdered by abortion. it has got to be changed.
Danke, RG, für die Erinnerung, der Pfad zu einem Erfolg und den Wohlstand!
Vo., L.
Eartikno. W., Gesellschaft
Great read Randy thank you for your insight how ironic that by being selfish you can help others so much more. I'm from NWMP and this has been a great eye opener !
Great read Randy thank you for your insight how ironic that by being selfish you can help others so much more. I'm from NWMP and this has been a great eye opener !
Fantastic post. Thank you
Prosperity TV
'During the week, his job falls through and although you feel badly about it, you haven’t failed to notice that he isn’t making much of an effort to go out and find another...'
Oh how true this is. The Man on the Couch forever glued to the sci-fi channel, do we (I) have this in my life to make me feel better about myself- in my life I have couch surfed a few times so I do not mind lending that space- but I bust my ass no matter what to get off the couch.
I have decided not to wait for people to recognize my value - that's just another form of lack thinking - where my self-worth is dependent on approval and reward from others.
I have talent and ability beyond most people I know, but somehow have been waiting to be called up on stage, as if what I know I can do is somehow invalid without the endorsement of others.
Today, I have decided to own what's mine and to do with it what I choose!
Thanks!
kh
the feeling is a guilt!..u have much and others had nothing, Another kind of lack programming.,
Randy you words are so captivating! I love the description of sitting in a Jacuzzi and relaxing after a hard day's work.
I can relate to this quote below:
"On your journey to self-fulfillment, you will find that it is not just your government that doesn’t want you to be successful; it is also your community, your friends and your family."
With the consent words of discouragement from my mother, to whom I speak with the most, it has been difficult to shake off the words of negativity that pour from her lips on a daily basis. But I have found that when I indulge in reading literature (ei. Think and Grow Rich), connecting with other like-minded individuals online, or write down and reflect upon my dreams it is easier to allow the ideas of others roll off my shoulders when what they say is in conflict to my beliefs.
Randy, I have often dwelt upon the desire to be wealthy from a very young age. Therefore, it is not my desire any longer that drives me but my destiny which I must fulfill that does. Wealth, if used in the right way, gives you options to spend, give, and invest as you choose. Options open up the freedom gates. I choose to be FREE!
Randy,when I share the above 'prosperity-philosophy' with others, I more than once get this question:
"Well, if prosperity is in the ethers, waiting for you to manifest it, what about the under-fed, HIV-infected single mother of 6, who lives in the desert of Zimbabwe?"
How would you reply to such a question Randy? Sometimes it does feel people have a point when they come up with an extreme example. On the other end, I feel they don't...
It's hard for me to come up with an explanation... Any ideas? What would/could the above mentioned mother do?
i like this, "A strong resolve and a complete refusal to live by any other standard than that which holds with your values is the key to healthy, abundant self-esteem. It is only by being strong yourself that you can help others. Those whom you love and value, whom you admire because their values are akin to your own." -RG
thanks
gene
As someone born in ZImbabwe - I'm now 35. If I lived there... I wold be dead probably - life expectancy is 34 for woman....
So I'm really interested in how you respond, Randy...
I come from Zimbabwe. Many years ago when I ran a business there, Mugabe was turning into a dictator. I counseled my employees that he could not win if everyone of 12 million people said "No". He could intimidate and terrorize a few people but not everyone all at once. Unfortunately a victim mentality is part of the belief system of many people in Africa. Another part of the belief system is that other people should give them what they need.
Some countries in the north of Africa are beginning to take responsibility for their lives. Until enough people do that in Zimbabwe, tragedies will continue.
What Randy is saying could be the salvation of Zimbabwe but until people understand and practice it there will be plenty of sad tales.
I must admit, I have only recently been introduced to you and started reading your blog and fan page on facebook.
This post is something that I agree with 100% and have been telling people all the type, be selfish, think of you before thinking of others. In the end if you don't love and respect yourself, how can others love and or respect you?
With regards to the question above, about the mother in Zimbabwe, what happened to her has happened and you can't go back and change things around. But looking towards the future, there is things that she can do.
In the end if she stays in the exact same place doing the exact same things then it doesn't matter if prosperity is in the ethers or not, she will not manifest a better life.
On the other hand if she believes that she can have a better life and start acting on it then she will be able to achieve it.
Thanks for the excellent post Randy.
Regards
Paulo
Woah waaay too long there buddy. I read majority then fell asleep, scanned; I get the point. In fact I felt a bit insulted this shizzle is COMMON SENSE! -
Absolutely fantastic, Randy, is all I can say at this time!!! I am now going to order your book you suggested!!! Thank you so much!!!
I turn 50 on November 10th and have been through a deep process all year to get to this point. Only last week I decided that I am going be more selfish, to make more time for me and to indulge myself in treats and look after my entire self gloriously. I'm not rich, and I work in the caring professions (I'm a therapist). For most of my life I have given a lot to others, and I will continue to do so as and when I am required to (and paid to). But I am re-setting my limits and boundaries. On November 10th I am turning the spotlight on me and I am going to revel in it.
Thanks for the generous post Randy, it was good to re-read this.
Here's to being Sensationally Selfish!
Great post , look in to ourselves we can find the answer or the problem You, can change you life in a minute
Randy- Your writing is smooth and descriptive and makes tough realizations come to life and make sense-
Recent poll stated that the 85% of college grads plan on moving back home- because home is so sweet! I speak on the generations and hit a big-time nerve with the boomer parents in the audiences who continue to pamper their adult children as they constantly catch their 25-30 year old kids with a safety net called "love"-
Single moms who barely scrape by continue paying their adult kid's "car insurance. Loving parents admit doing their kids homework and bragging about the A they got- them rationalization that the competition getting into a great college is so tough- their kid need a little help-
What are we teaching our children? It's time to get selfish!
Ayn Rands "Atlas Shrugged & The Virtue of selfishness" poured gass on my firre and build me up more than any book i had ever read. I took Eric advice about reading Ayn Rand at the conference in Mainheim that you both did and i'm glad i did. I know that your teachings are very congruent with Rand's and i understand why. I appreciate you for spreading the power of prosperity consciousness in the world in a healthy way.
See ya on the world's stages!
Alex Tita
Amen and Thank you! Twas a wake up call to this Mom. I live this way except when it came to my daughter... no more. I'm showing her the wrong way.
Randy,
Thanks so much! As I have stated in previous comments, I had lost a couple of successful business during the past few years. I have dropped into this type of victim mindset. Even my wife and my life coach have said many times, "well you are not alone, it is just the economy and the times we live in." They encouraged me to go out and find a whatever work I can find and just settle for a simple life because I had lost big in the business world. Well that just does not excite me or get me to a "white hot burning desire". So thanks to you Randy, I am changing every aspect of my life today - 11-04-09 - and going back to believing that I can build another business and once again be successful even in a down economy. Thanks for your insight!!!!!
There is a lot in this blog. I can see that been selfish and putting myself first is a good thing and the way to break from my poor mentality.
You off tangent when you are start expanding your personal ideas of prosperity to govertments. In the name of Free Enterprirse and Personal Responsability, the bankers bankrupted their banks in the U.S and they gave themselves millions in compensations. I call that legalized corruption.
Let's take your Libertarian ideology to Mexico, where the third richest person in the world lives,Carlos Slim, while half of the population lives in utterly poverty. On the other hand, one of your mentors in Norway makes over $100,000 a month and Norway has one of the highest taxation rate in the world.
In the 21th century, there is no relation between creating wealth and high taxation. In fact, Finland which has the highest marginal tax rates in the world has created 2 billionaries with a population of 5 millions.
The idea that anyone who doesn't make money is a failure is just non-sense. You take us all around the world:Do the Opera singers in Italy are millionaries?Are you softball buddies millionaries? Making moneys means you know how to make money. That's it.
There is no relation between making money and been succesful. We all know people who have millions and are miserable and people who don't have money and are miserable too.
I want to learn to make money in Network Marketing but I will never put my self-worth on doing it.
I'm a big Rand fan, and absolutely LOVE "Atlas Shrugged". A lot of the conservative-side folks have taken it and twisted up some of the meaning in my opinion to mean that "the bottom line" is the almighty.
They are wrong about that.
She wrote about CONTRIBUTION and progress being the aim, and the freedom to do it.
The "Every man for himself" philosophy DOES NOT WORK EITHER.
You wrote about Communism proving itself to not work, and we JUST proved the same with Capitalism, unless you choose to stay blind. "Every man for himself" DOES NOT WORK.
As for selfishness, I agree with all of that about doing what's in your own interest. Being that I have now read that story in Randy's different books (It's in at least two), I thought I'd mention that the government gets established and takes away the pipeline not just to feed the people, BUT TO STOP THE PEOPLE FROM KILLING THE INVENTORS.
I would say that is in their interest!
In a REAL world situation, you are better off helping Eddie rather than Eddie becoming the Criminal of the town. THAT'S why the govt does what it does. When you have the capacity to think BIGGER, you see these things.
In a real-world situation, there are people who will take by FORCE (instead of government), and THAT is the real threat.
So, what I am saying in that is that helping Eddie IS in your interest, although there comes a point where it isn't.
Helping the waiter was in his interest, until it wasn't.
So, helping each other IS in our interest, until it isn't.
I sooooo agree with this comment. One of my friends, a single mother of an only male child, is bank rolling her son's college education. This kid has not taken the initiative to independently get a job (without his mommy's permission) and earn money to pay for his expenses.
When I ask her about how she's going to pay for her retirement, she says (and I'm quoting verbatim), "He's a good kid..." I'm thinking that she thinks he's going to bank roll her retirement in exchange for her paying for his college.
Your words are soooooo TRUE!
Great post Randy.
Releasing underlying beliefs can be a change. You can't do this on a conscious level because you're not aware of these blockages. Deep meditation and autosuggestion leading into sleep are 2 great methods to release and reprogram.
What one person calls selfish, another calls a full life. I aim to live a full life. If someone labels me as selfish they wish that they could be living the life I live.
The irony of it all is that whomever uses the word selfish is thining 'Me, me, me.' As in, '*I* decide how *you* should live your life.' This line of thining is the height of selfishness and arrogance.
Those who are comfortable with wealth spend a lot more time thinking about others than judgemental people do.
I see how I have attach my self-worth to not having money.
Now. Can you give more examples on how YOU change those patterns in yourself? Randy, I listen to you because You have been where I am. I dont' like hype and theory.
You have shared 4 strategies to break these patterns:1)Becoming aware, 2)Asking questions to ourselves? 3)auto-suggestion CD 4)Theraphy.
thanks,Man.
This was a great post Randy. I've already began my journey in my mind of prosperity and selfish thinking. Somehow, I think I did raise my children to be selfish and put their interests first, so hopefully we've broken the cycle. I've already had a positive experience with receiving a booking for my MLM business and it's wonderful. I know I need to lose my toxic friends because they bring me down.
The jacuzzi story was great, but I think i went the wrong way with it. In my mind I started remodeling my bathroom to go ahead and get the bigger marble jacuzzi tub with my new wealth ... is this where my mind is supposed to go now 🙂
Good for you!
-RG
These 4 things are a good start. Be very careful about saying things like "I want to make money/be successful, but I'm not willing to sell my soul/be a bad parent/etc..." because it programs you that it is a either/or scenario. You can be wealthy, healthy happy AND be a good person.
-RG
Bones you have an erroneous premise here. You seem to think what we practice in this country is free enterprise and capitalism. It isn't. It is socialized capitalism. Big difference. This is not to say that free enterprise is perfect. Nothing is. It is just the best option.
-RG
Is it sense? Absolutely. Common? Not a chance.
-RG
Yes exactly. Prosperity is in the ethers all around us as Charles Fillmore taught. But the mechanism to manifest it is ideas. And it is very easy to see that places with the most challenges offer the greatest opportunities for ideas. Think of the last few posts and my Randy's Rants newsletter when I spoke of the "jockeys" in Jakarta. Challenges offer a chance to use our creativity and ingenuity and by solving them you can create wealth. Or as Dave Matthews says, "someone else's broken heart becomes your favorite song."
-RG
"I want to make money/be successful, but I’m not willing to sell my soul/be a bad parent/etc…” because it programs you that it is a either/or scenario. You can be wealthy, healthy happy AND be a good person." -RG
THANK YOU. Do you realize I read that entire post and said, 'uh-huh, ya...makes sense.'
BUT, the reply you gave above is the hidden 'ah-ha' nugget that was intended for me.
You just threw down a message from the universe to me.
I'm 'that' single mom of two, feeling the either/or scenario of "I'm not willing to be a bad parent".
I don't NEED to feel that or believe that scenario. I CAN have it all AND be a great parent.
I've just accepted a HUGE new truth. Now, don't get me wrong, my programming may try to force the either/or scenario back, but now that I KNOW it's there, I can DO something about it.
You rock.
Jhanna Dawson
You are correct- do you feel that absolutely pure capitalism (free enterprise) is possible?
It isn't.
Someone having a "sale" breaks the rules of it. As does marketing. As does word-of-mouth. All of those things BREAK THE RULES of pure capitalism. So does crime.
Just like Communism sounding good on paper, Capitalism does too, it just doesn't account for humans!
In your island story, the guy who makes the pipeline GETS KILLED for it by the most violent person on the island, and "every man for himself" or "Might makes right" wins.
We have collectively decided to NOT live that way.
The heart of the matter...
A strong resolve and a complete refusal to live by any other standard than that which holds with your values is the key to healthy, abundant self-esteem. It is only by being strong yourself that you can help others. Those whom you love and value, whom you admire because their values are akin to your own.
STOP attempting to be someone else. Be you first last always and all ways.
GREAT read!! Thank you Randy.
One of my fav songs is JoDee Messina's "Bye Bye." It's basically a chick song about kissing off a loser boyfriend. But I sing it out loud all the time to remind me to say bye-bye to any and all relationships (with people or things) that are holding me back...
What a great read. I see so many people I know in Eddie. Unwilling to step out of their comfort zone, willing to let everyone around them do the work. If individuals aren't willing to put forth the effort to change their circumstances, then they are not the people I want to spend time with. Life is so much more than just what happens to you, it is what you make of it!!
Actually I think sales, marketing and word of mouth are perfect demonstrations of capitalism.
-RG
Glad you got this. It's a huge breakthrough for a lot of people.
-RG
I love that song and your comment!
-RG
That is the heart of the matter!
-RG
Great post Randy. One thing that keeps me from taking success to the next level is the fact that I hate paying taxes. Sometimes I get the idea that I am sabotaging myself so that I do not earn enough to pay taxes. I cannot stand to see how our government steal and waste our tax money, but in the end that is what is keeping me from achieving the success I have been working for.
“Well, if prosperity is in the ethers, waiting for you to manifest it, what about the under-fed, HIV-infected single mother of 6, who lives in the desert of Zimbabwe?"
This is a good point Robert, and one that I struggled with as well. Until I read about a single mother of 4 (in South America) living in the "in the middle of nowhere" who had started a successful organic coffee farming business!
Picture this: She has 4 kids, and her husband leaves her becuase he looses his job a the local mine. He is the only source of income for the household. Her husband and all of his other "victim mentality" peers complain to the government about how badly they are treated and demand for "something to be done about this".
She cannot get a job, but decides go back to her farming roots as that is all she knows. Her organic coffee farm becomes so successful that she can lower her prices and offer better quality coffee at a better rate than the local competitors, winning more business. She now provides for her kids, and employing some of the laid off miners(!) to work so they can provide for THEIR families as well. So not only has she brought prosperity for herself, but her community as well.
It's pretty impressive stuff. This really makes me believe that if you are willing to release victim-hood, and manifest prosperity, your circumstances are almost irrelevant.
Might be worth mentioning this story next time! 🙂
People Just Love This Business!
"But for most of you, to do this will require a serious questioning of your core beliefs. When you question your beliefs – you question your limitations. If your beliefs serve you – they can withstand the scrutiny. If they don’t survive the questioning – you can drop them, and replace them with beliefs that serve you."
I believe that this sums it up. The question is how do we get "down deep" and clean out the old "stuff" to make way for the new. Most changes I have made in my life seem like a warm bath...it's nice for awhile - but then the water goes cold. In other words, I usually move back to what I am comfortable with. Of course, over time, I have made "progress" which seems to satisfy for a time. Maybe being really frustrated is the key to changing some of the core beliefs!
Thanks for the insight Randy (and others who have commented)
A lot to think about.
"Relinquishing your happiness for the sake of others, known or unknown, verifies to yourself, and others, that you are small and unworthy of even your own attention. It’s actually anti-humanity, and it makes you mentally sick!
Your survival and your pursuit of happiness must form the foundation of your value system. To make your life, by your own means, towards your own standards, and for your own enjoyment. Anything less than that is harmful to you. And anything harmful to the individual is actually detrimental to society as a whole. "RG
It is not easy when family & friends are part of "the herd" but I can't live the way the herd is telling me to live. So it is a lonelier road but doable. Love yourself unconditionally.
"You can't look good and get better at the same time." RG
"If Not This Then What? If Not NOW then When? If Not You Then Who?"Ken Dunn
I haven't read "Why You’re DUMB, SICK & Broke & How to Get SMART, HEALTHY & RICH! " ...so I'll move it up on my list of books to read.
another tip for self development: repetition... reread good books & re-listen to good self development.
Powerful & provocative...if someone just took note of which phrases triggered an emotional reaction while reading, they could engage in some powerful self-reflection and mind-opening questions...thanks for posting this!
That belief is definitely not serving you!
-RG
Great read ,changing ones belief system is hard yet it is worth it in order to evolve.
Hey Randy,
Excellent Story! I am going to order your book and dive right in!
I have done some heavy duty cleansing since I lost wrote and have decided to start fresh. I am caught in the middle, being unemployed, receiving unemployment, for which I have paid for my entire working life, and through the entire JOB less time I have never worked so hard and learned so much! I am required to search for new employment, which I do, but through my learning and growing, it has become quite hypocritical. I have developed so much that I feel as though I am just getting started and to go back to a JOB, would be like handing me a prison sentence, Yikes!
Clearly my financial resources are at an all time low, but I have never felt more optimistic that something somewhere is just around the corner, and if I continue to get up early and work on my projects, sooner or later it will click.
Everyone is pressuring me to just take a job, any job to get myself back in the rat race, and I must say it is really the last thing I want. I know it feels or appears that I am just spinning my wheels, but deep inside I truly desire to create a miracle out of what seems to be a disaster.
Abraham Lincoln also experienced many defeats before reaching the White House, and some how I see alot of similarities between the two of us! I would also like to free the slaves, the slaves of the rat race, but I must set the example and pave the way, that others too can finally experience this freedom I feel.
I have cast my sails and head out now to the open seas of oppurtunities and I know one day we will laugh over this phase I have been going through. Any suggestions from you as to which direction I should sail?
Thanks again Dear Randy for always sending your strong wind of determination and desire my way!
See you at the Southern Cross!
Sincerely,
Rocky
I think you mean that they are ingenuity, and a smart way to do business, and I whole-heartedly agree with you. However, they are NOT capitalism, because if you read the definitions and requirements for capitalism, they are OUTSIDE the rules.
Pure capitalism is "Best product, best price" period.
And that is supposed to win. Just like when Dagney was at the island, and they ran into the guy working on the machine that was even better- THAT was capitalism- not "His marketing is so flashy" or "I'm having a sale!". Those things GO AGAINST pure capitalism, and as you realize now- totally impossible.
I look at taxes as something I *get* to do rather than something I *have* to do.
So, I get to hire all those people to keep the streets clean and the lights working as I drive by in my dream car!
kh
What's a great post, Randy! I read it again and again. I got many interesting points I have never known before. You help me understand about selfishness more clearly. And now, I commit not to feel sick on that. You're so right: it's no worth to me to continue tying myself with any fears, and it’s my duty to make my own life healthy before I can help others. Why my soul has to be ill-treated by other criticism? Why doesn’t it be fed by new fresh and generous thought? It’s my choices. I decide to choose a life of soul opening and rewarding. Thanks Randy for your beautiful words!
Dear Mr Gage,
I am overwhelmed. I have explored these concepts myself,and yet have been trapped at the same time.I have much searching to do,and thanks to your blog have been given the excuse to do so. We are scared and we often take the easy way out. I am getting weary of this cycle,it is time to move on.
Thank You,
Deatra
In the book you'll find a chapter on the three best businesses I recommend for leverage, which is the best way to create true wealth. Good luck. Let me know what you think.
-RG
Randy:
I had a breakthrough this morning. There is no relationship between making money and been succesful.
You also told to make a "Dream Board" to break through our limiting beliefs.
Please keep telling us how YOU broke through your limiting beliefs.
Randy:
You are very qualified to write a book on prosperity. It will be great to see how you broke the process of limiting beliefs in your life through a 5 year process.
No hype, no jumping around like a monkey on stage, just inner transformation.
It seems to me that this is where most people are stuck on building a succesful network marketing business.
It is like building a house without foundations. Until the foundations are secured, You can add anything else or else it falls apart.
I'm going to be honest with everyone here. Because my life at present is like that of Eddie's. I'm sleeping on the floor of my childhood friends place living out of four white boxes. However, I'm not a dumb ass like Eddie because I work full-time pay my rent and child care like clockwork. I don't watch TV I meditate and visulize at around 4 in the morning read mental food for thought and raising my conscieness for my own selfish needs.
I made a public declarartion at my work place that I intend to retire in 5 years time. I told most of my collegues to remind me of my commitment to retire from driving a London Bus in five years. I sharing my network marketing opportunity with most of the drivers who know me. Even though I know they are all suspects rather than prospects! I have no shame in sharing my ideals with my colleague who shake their heads in agreement but still afraid to answer their cell phone when I call.
Being motivated for my own selfish needs is workable for me and if anyone joins my network marketing business I will share with them some tough love ideals that'll test their resolve.
RG Looking forward to your next post. Keep them flowing.
Randy I know you're a baseball fan, So I'm curious of your thoughts on this line of a rant.
I'm reading this blog the day after the Yankees won the World Series. While my favorite player of all time is Lou Gehrig, I've always despised the Yankees organization, Even calling them the Evil Empire. That was until I started talking to my wife about the team during one of the games this week against the Phillies.
If we dislike the Yankees because they are the most successful team in professional sports are we just acting in a lack mentality like those who dislike and mistrust rich people. 27 World Series championships is quite a feat and Should be celebrated and studied.
Why are the Yankees so Rich, Successful and consistent. It's mindset. The Chicago Cubs are called lovable losers and the Yankees The Evil Empire. Both are Big Time teams with polar opposite mindsets. The Yankees EXPECT to win, The Cubs EXPECT to Blow it. One is Prosperity Driven, the other Is Lack or Poverty driven. One has ONE name on the front of the jersey, a # on the back and is Team driven, the other One name on the Front and another name on the back and is Personality driven. One is driven by Goals and rich in content, the other is driven by fear and usually poor in content.
Point being , The Yankees have built a culture of success, follow the plan, keeps what works and gets rid of what doesn't. Expect their players and staff to be professional, Holds them accountable and inspires them to play or perform at their highest level at all times. What's to hate about that?
The same can be said of many other historically successful professional and collegiate teams.
For example: Notre Dame, USC, Texas, and Oklahoma of College Football.
UCLA, Indiana, Kentucky, Kansas, North Carolina and Duke in Men's College Basketball.
Tennessee and UConn in Women's College Basketball.
The Lakers and Celtics of the NBA.
The Patriots, Colts, Cowboys and Steelers of the NFL.
The Canadians and Red Wings of the NHL.
Real Madrid and Manchester United of European Football
Most People who are passionate about sports like me (can you tell?) probably have an opinion about one of the teams listed above. Chances are if they aren't fans of one of them and their team has suffered a beat down by them the HATE that team for it's success, falling into a lack mentality. Each of these teams should be celebrated for their success and studied by the other teams in their field for clues.
I've read this story in like 2 of your other books. Great read.
I also read "Atlas Shrugged" by Ayn Rand, because you recommended it. The entitlement mentality is something that has to be let go in people...
Everyday, I see the self limiting beliefs which are prevalent in our world, and funny thing is so many people argue and justify why they are where they are...but I try to help as many as I can, and it seems to be working...
Its amazing how much junk we have to remove from inside us....
I`ve read “Atlas Shrugged” by Ayn Rand. The great thing! Thanks m-r Gage for opening me this wise booke.
Randy, this is my first visit to your blog and I am floored by your wisdom and the ability to portray the lesson with a great visual.
We too talk much about pipeline income & it's effect, but to say you took it to the next level would be an understatement. It's truely sad how few people understand this. The comments about friends and family being "unsupportive" and the "belief" that rich people are evil are so true. As a newcomer to the world of the entreprenuer I have been assaulted on all sides by everyone who "knows" me. It's interesting to see who your true friends are & even more interesting to associate with people of your caliber. Orrin said you were amazing at the Mastermind Event - I think I'll not miss my old "friends"....keep it coming! (PS - love the title of your book! After I read it - I won't hesitate to pass it on to the "Eddies" in my former life...)
Spot on Randy! I have enjoyed this connection w/you via Art Jonak & Orrin Woodward & The Team. Ayn Rand is a must read author for sure. Looking forward to meeting you someday as I'm sure we will. In the meantime, take care & God Bless. 🙂
Randy!
I Love You... will you be my president??? Can I write in your name??
THere were cracks of lightning and thunder going off in my head as I read this. I will share this extensively.
Kathleen
I have just listened to you in the "I am Agel" in Brazil and start waking up from my "sleep-life". So when I got in my place today I start really working on myself and found your post. It was fantastic, thanks for that! We need people that makes us really think about our situation, so thank you! have a good selfish life 🙂
I will get mine now. Cheers
Добрий день..Ренди
читал ваши книги,они заставляют задуматся
Dear Randy,
Astounding your writing. I stumbled on your website. I thought you looked kind a mean but proceeded. I was the women who finally left the abuse in my strong resolve but crawling then. People felt sorry for me with my child with autism. My catholic faith exploited I was turned into the sacrificial animal to a bully. I had no clothers, furniture or food when I filed for divorce. I was white, in Orange County and college educated with professional jobs. What happened to me? No self care. the last 7 to 9 years has been my awakening and new climb up the other side of the mountain. Some call it selfishness I call it SELF CARE. And you are absolutely correct, my self care has provided for others. My son has recovered in mainstream school's my career has reached the six figures, I own my home, I stood up to the bully and did my own divorce and demand his child support as I pay for our son as well. I am traveling to Europe now, starting my investing and own consulting and writing business and it is all based on what pleases me and makes me happy. Now, I have balance with my faith and can attend church and decide where my 10% goes each month. Sometimes the Women's shelter wins over the church, but it is my money, my choice and it is all due to self care. Now, I question making it with wealth and want it even more. Every time I think of me first the whole world gets better. My son gets better, the bully stays away and the like minded friends and aides who help my son get more experience and training and my home is filled with things I love and then I want to give out of this joy instead of sacrifice. I am rich and getting wealthier everyday. Your writing was right on. I wish I had left at the first abuse, but stayed for 6 stupid more years due to religion, family, kids. Nothing to do with me and I was being killed. Never again do I wait, put myself second or think someone's bad luck is my call to save. If my example inspires them fine, but being a light in the world isn't about chasing after others to give. It is a wholeness and building prosperity. I am ready for the next level because I know my value. My looks are better at 43 then they ever were married and sacrificing and my bank account and investments grow and grow because I am growing and living. Jennifer
I.love this... Your words really got me inspired..
Wish to connect with You more if you dont mind
+2347068128956
our society has deteriated to the point where the rich are extremely rich and the poor are extremely poor. this causes many extreme problems i.e. people dieing of starvation and babys murdered by abortion. it has got to be changed.
Danke, RG, für die Erinnerung, der Pfad zu einem Erfolg und den Wohlstand!
Vo., L.
Eartikno. W., Gesellschaft
Great read Randy thank you for your insight how ironic that by being selfish you can help others so much more. I'm from NWMP and this has been a great eye opener !
Great read Randy thank you for your insight how ironic that by being selfish you can help others so much more. I'm from NWMP and this has been a great eye opener !
Fantastic post. Thank you